UN Secretary-General hails new constitution

Kathmandu, September 26

The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has commended the Nepali people on the adoption of the new constitution, saying that the document is a milestone in the peace process.

In a note issued by his Spokesperson, the UN Secretary General also reiterated the importance of non-violence and respect for peaceful protests in Nepal.

“Underlining that democratic transitions are complex and long-term processes, the Secretary-General commends Nepali people on the adoption of the new constitution, a milestone in the peace process,” read the note.

Secretary-General Ban earlier had only “acknowledged” the adoption of the new Constitution. Nevertheless, the head of the global body has so far refrained from using the word “welcome” to the document.

According to the note issued in New York later yesterday, Secretary-General has also urged all sides to resolve their differences in a spirit of compromise and in a flexible manner to pave the way for a democratic, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Nepal.

Responding to questions related to Nepal, Secretary General Ban’s spokesperson mentioned in the note that the former was also planning to meet Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Federal Affairs and Local Development, Prakash Man Singh, most probably on October 2 in New York.

Deputy Prime Minister Singh is now leading the Nepali delegation to the 70th Session of the UN General Assembly in absence of Prime Minister Sushil Koirala.

According to the note, the Secretary-General has understood that the decision of PM Koirala to cancel his visit to the UN was due to his need to focus on the domestic political situation and to facilitate dialogue.

“He looks forward to meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh to discuss a range of issues of mutual interest of Nepal and the United Nations,” added the note.